By Sunny A. David, Awka

International rights activist and journalist Donu Kogbara has stated that former Labour Party Presidential candidate Peter Obi has attained an exceptional level of global recognition, surpassing all other Nigerian politicians in popularity over the past three years.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV and was monitored by our correspondent in Awka, Kogbara highlighted Obi’s rapid political ascent since he parted ways with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). She credited his independent candidacy with propelling him to remarkable levels of domestic and international acclaim.

“Peter Obi is far and away the most popular politician in Nigeria today, and has been for the past three years,” Kogbara said. “I’m talking about from the time he left the PDP to contest in his own right. That decision marked a turning point in his political journey.”

Reflecting on Obi’s previous political roles, she pointed out the stark difference in public reception between his 2019 vice-presidential run alongside Atiku Abubakar and his later solo campaign. “He ran with Atiku in 2019, and they didn’t perform particularly well. But there’s something about Peter standing on his own that resonates now,” she observed.

Kogbara also shared personal anecdotes illustrating Obi’s international visibility. “I recently visited Sierra Leone, and once people knew I was Nigerian, many asked me, ‘Do you know Peter Obi?’” she recalled. “Even in London, I’ve had Uber drivers—some Yoruba, who you might assume would favor Asiwaju—tell me that Peter Obi is ‘their man.’”

Offering a bold perspective, Kogbara suggested that the only Nigerian politician who might have rivaled Obi’s popularity was former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. “It’s a radical thought, but I believe the only person who could have matched Obi’s popularity—had he been given the chance to run—is Osinbajo,” she stated.

She concluded by reflecting on the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, suggesting a different outcome might have reshaped the political contest. “If the APC had produced Osinbajo as its candidate, he could have posed a serious challenge to Obi in terms of public appeal and perception,” Kogbara said.

BY AUSTIN OYIBODE

The Odu Oma Club of Nigeria has extended heartfelt congratulations to Senator Ned Nwoko and members of the technical committee on the creation of Anioma State, commending the significant progress made toward the long-standing goal of establishing Anioma as Nigeria’s 37th state.

In an official message signed by President Mr. Patrick Ogbogu Okenyi, Secretary Mr. Uche Emma Aboh, and Publicity Secretary Dr. CC Nwayalani, the club expressed admiration for the tireless efforts of the senator representing Anioma and the technical committee.

The group also praised all stakeholders who made compelling presentations during the South-South Zonal Public Hearing held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

“The renewed call for Anioma state, backed by clear articulation and united voices, is a testament to the resilience and unity of our people,” the statement read in part.

Founded over 45 years ago, the Odu Oma Club of Nigeria has been a vanguard in the pursuit of statehood for Anioma.

The club reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the realization of Anioma State, emphasizing that the effort so far represents a vision grounded in equity, justice, and rightful inclusion within the Nigerian federation.

“This milestone is not just a political achievement, but a historic testament to the enduring will of Anioma sons and daughters,” the statement continued.

“We are confident that with continued strategic engagement and unity of purpose among all stakeholders, the dream of Anioma State will soon be realised.”

The club offerred renewed congratulations to Senator Prince Ned Nwoko, the technical committee, and all individuals who contributed to what it called a “great and noble cause.”

Delta State Commissioner for Special Duties (Government House), Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza has felicitated the immediate past Governor of the State, Senator, (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa on the occasion of his 66th birthday, describing the former Governor as a visionary leader, whose indelible impact and astute acumen continues to be relevant in the State.

Dr. Osuoza, in a congratulatory message which he signed personally, said: “Your Excellency, as you mark your 66th Birthday Anniversary today, July 8, 2025, I, on behalf of my family, wish you a happy, glorious and memorable celebration.

“Your visionary leadership, defined by your astute political and administrative acumen not only continues to resonate loudly, with impactful and pragmatic influence in the State.

“You are indeed an Extraordinary Leader and we are truly grateful for this opportunity to once again celebrate you on your special day and wish you God’s divine guidance, protection, blessings and more celebrations, for many years to come. Amen!

Happy Birthday, Ekwueme!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.

Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties (Government House).

By Harrison Akamule

A Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Simeon Daregha has urged Deltans to emulate the great leadership sytle of Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, saying  that Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa’s contributions in human capital development, infrastructural, education, culture, politics, sports, peace and unity is Worthy of emulation.

He pointed out that the former Governor have knot in various spheres of life from the beginning as a child, school boy and now a pillar of strength, wisdom, knowledge, hope and courage to many.

According to him, the former Governor’s doggedness and tenacity in leadership serve as precursor  to the massive transformation in lifting the state to comity of states and beyond.

Hon. Daregha made this statement on Tuesday to commemorate the former Governor’s birthday.

He said that Delta State government’s growth should be collective and the responsibility of all,  irrespective of our political differences, Daregha opined.

He therefore on behalf of his family, good people of Bomadi LGA wished the former Governor, a man of successive success stories”.good health and long life

By Harrison Akamule

The Executive Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State , Hon Dagidi Rawlings Andoye, has finalized plans to Commission 14 capital intensive infrastructural projects to mark his first year in office, raising the bar of development for Council Chairmen to emulate in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by his Media Aid, Kofa Kingsley revealed that  “Some of the completed 14 capital projects billed for Commissioning on 15th July, 2025 are deaconess Tobore Oborevwori Ultra-Modern Multiple Purpose Event Centre, Newly constructed Vice Chairman’s lodge, High Court road, High Court Chambers, Judges residential lodge, newly constructed concrete pavement with two sides drain Chairman office road and Newly Constructed administrative principal officers lodge.”

Others including, construction of Obi Atlas road, the re-connection of Bomadi to the National grid, renovation of Chairman’s lodge, renovation of the Secretary of Council office, construction of Council’s chapel for worshipping and the Renovation/ rehabilitation of the main Council’s Pavilion.

The Council Chairman, Andaye, in an interactive engagement with newsmen  at his office stated that he swung into action immediately after his inauguration and noted that there was no time to waste but to demonstrate action, not words to his people.

He explained that being privileged to work with the State Governor, Elder Sherrif Oborevwori and being mentored , he in turn translated and replicated same projects and executed them  in Bomadi Council Area.

Andaye stressed that his achievement within the period came with a lot of sacrifice and strict financial discipline and further disclosed that no financial burden was placed on the Council as all the projects were executed  with the statutory Council fundings.

According to Andaye,  he came from a humble background and while growing up, he had burning desire to change the narrative in Bomadi local Government Area “now that I have the opportunity, my utmost goal is to make Bomadi a modern city to attract investors, interventionists agencies to come and partner in development of the council area.’

” I need to prove my integrity ,my passion and by providing the enabling environment, and by this, it would attract interventionists agencies to come to add more in developing our communities.”

Talking about stomach infrastructure, he reiterated that immediately he resumed office he saw the need to give lifeline to the elderly people,  especially the ones that could no longer fend for themselves. ” I had consistently empowered over 4,000 senior citizen from all the communities in the Council Area.

According to him, “my burning desire is to change lives,  especially the youths, to make them productive agents of growth in the society, a skill acquisition and empowerment programme for 400 youths drawn from the wards  in the local government area was organized, in shoe making, catering, soap making, make-up, paint making and painting and in Point of sale(Pos) operating business,  starter pack given to all participants and it is a joy that the programme has changed so many lives in the council area.

Persons living with disability were not left out in the scheme of things as I even appointed amongst them SA to be relating with me, unfortunately the appointee recently passed-out.”

While emphasizing the need for peaceful environment and coexistence in the  Council area, the Chairman expressed gladness and maintained that he brokered peace between Okoloba Community in his Council and Okuama neighbouring community in Ughelli South Council Area of the state, which crisis led to the killing of 17 army officers.

“With the kind permission from the State Governor, the two waring groups in the presence of monarchs from the both Council Area, Area Commanders and their Divisional Police officers from Bomadi and Otu-Jeremi initiated a peace accord signing at the governor office annex Warri. My concern for peace did not end there, Kalafiogbene community leadership crises was peacefully resolved by me, Ogodobiri and Ezebiri land disputes resolved, the purchase of operational vehicles ( Sienna) for quick response to the Nigeria Police and another one for the vigilantes to combart crime are some of my strides in securiting my Council Area, he said.

Earlier a tour around projects sites at Bomadi was conducted by Head of Works  Department, Engr Atlas Obi where he told journalists that the unprecedented feat of

infrastructural , human enhanced capacity development by Hon Andaye was first of its kind in the history of Council administration in Nigeria.

By Harrison Akamule*                    

Akugbene community leader Hon.(Engr) Freeland Eregu has praised His Royal Majesty Pere S.P. Luke,  Kalanama VIII, Pere of Akugbene-Mein kingdom on his well deserved new position as the secretary of SOUTH SOUTH MONARCHS FORUM.

Speaking to newsmen at Akugbene Community, Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta state on the importance of traditional institutions in nation building,, Hon. Freeland Eregu stated that HRM Luke’s new position is no surprise to those  who have closely felt his love to strengthen the traditional institution since he became a traditional ruler.

According to Hon. Eregu, “the Monarch’s commitment to excellence, and drive for growth and development, his passion for love, peace and unity could have been the testimony that spoke for him..“

He noted that the monarch has added so much value to the kingdom and his people.”All the monarch’s  efforts is testimony to his devotion to his people”, Eregu opined

He explained that the monarch is passionate for fostering sustainable peaceful coexistence, imbibing the spirit of neighborliness; capacity building and capacity utilization; ecclesiastical empowerment; award of scholarship to deserving students in the kingdom have been the Hallmark of his leadership style, and is worthy of emulation.

Hon. Engr. Eregu  Freeland, however admonished sons and daughters of the kingdom to  reflect the virtues of the monarch and become worthy ambassadors of the kingdom in order to attract meaningful investment, development, growth and transformation to the kingdom.

He further enjoined the people to give the Monarch the needed encouragement and support to succeed in his position as secretary to SOUTH SOUTH MONARCHS FORUM for the benefit of all in the South South and Nigeria at large.

Hon. Eregu, therefore congratulated the Monarch for his new position, saying that the elevation of the monarch is a pride to the Akugbene Mien Kingdom. He prayed for God’s guidance and protection and an unbreatable teamwork in the traditional rulers institution in the South  South.

Hon.Eregu also seized this opportunity to facilitate with the monarch on his birthday, thanking him for thoughtfulness and support to the kingdom and well-being of the people.

Also commenting on the pere of Akugbene -Mein kingdom, Pere S.P Luke, Prince Ezon-ebi Okubo described the Monarch as a man of discipline, principle and integrity whose vision is to build the confidence of his people.

According to him, the monarch always makes sure that the people are dedicated, determined and trust in God which is the partway to a fruitful living.

Immediate past Managing Director/Chhief Executive of the Delta Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Bashorun Askia Ogieh has felicitated with immediate past Governor of the State, HE Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

The Udu of Isoko Nation Bashorun Askia Ogieh, described the immediate past Governor of Delta State HE Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa as an extraordinary leader who did wonders as the Governor of Delta State from 2015 – 2023.

According to a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online, he said.

“Starting with the SMART Agenda, you Strategically Created Wealth for Deltans, embarked on  Meaningful Peace Building, Agriculture and Industrialisation were attended to, Relevant Health and Educational Policies were formulated and implemented, and a total Transformed Environment Through Urban Renewal was undertaken. This was followed with a STRONGER DELTA Agenda, all for the development of Delta State. Despite the harsh and devastating economic realities and recession when you were elected, You performed extraordinary, Bashorun Askia declared.

“On behalf of my immediate and Political Family, I join millions of people all over the world to celebrate your 66th birthday anniversary today.

It’s my sincere prayers that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with abundant grace, peace, prosperity, good health, love and all the good things that life can offer.

“Happy Birthday Ekweme of the Universe.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has called on BRICS nations to lead a transformative global agenda that addresses the twin challenges of climate change and health inequity.

Tuggar made the call while speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian delegation.

He delivered an address outlining Nigeria’s vision for a just transition and the need for urgent, unified action at the BRICS Meeting in Brazil.

Tuggar emphasized that the health of the planet and the health of people from cities to rural communities are intrinsically linked and must be treated as such, stressing that: “The climate emergency heeds no borders. Just like global healthcare, we fix our own problems when we work together.”

Tuggar noted that despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change, citing examples from Nigeria, including deadly flooding in Mokwa, increasing desertification in the north, and rising sea levels in the Niger Delta, all of which are taking a toll on lives and livelihoods.

He lamented that: “Climate change is not a ‘tomorrow problem’ for Nigeria,” expressing condolences to victims of recent natural disasters. He called attention to Nigeria’s investments in renewable energy including hydro and solar and affirmed the country’s commitment to initiatives such as the African Carbon Market and the Great Green Wall.

He urged BRICS to increase climate financing support to developing nations, saying such assistance would enable the Global South to pursue ambitious climate targets while maintaining economic growth. “We believe COP30 must grasp the challenge of allowing the Global South to grow economically while safeguarding our collective responsibility to meet the challenge of climate change,” he said.

On global health, Tuggar warned that the inequities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic demand a complete reinvention of global health systems. “Would so many children still die of malaria if this were a level playing field?” he asked. “COVID-19 was a tragedy, but also a warning.”

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen South-South health diplomacy through regional vaccine hubs, biotechnology and genomics research, and skills transfer. The goal, he said, is to prevent climate-induced health crises and ensure no child dies from a lack of access to routine healthcare.

Tuggar outlined Nigeria’s Long-Term Vision 2050, which seeks to integrate renewable energy, urban efficiency, and climate resilience into national planning. The plan includes reforestation and sustainable agriculture projects, as well as knowledge-sharing with countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

“Nigeria has always met its obligations under the Paris Agreement,” he said, calling for deeper cooperation with BRICS to achieve Universal Health Coverage, climate justice, and greater pandemic preparedness.

He urged COP30 to rise above “sterile and toothless diplomacy,” arguing that BRICS is well-positioned to offer a new framework for tackling old and emerging challenges. “Nigeria believes in solidarity, but we also recognize self-interest and nothing helps us help ourselves more than working together,” he concluded.

By CHIBUEZE OLOKOR

The clamor for the creation of Anioma State has spanned decades, driven by the aspiration of the Anioma people for equity, identity, and development. Today, that dream inches closer to reality through the tireless efforts of Senator Ned Nwoko. For this reason, it is imperative for all Anioma political leaders—House of Assembly members, Local Government Chairmen, political leaders and stakeholders across party lines—to rally behind this historic movement. The opportunity before us is rare, and if missed, may never return in generations to come.

Senator Ned Nwoko has demonstrated exceptional commitment and strategic foresight in pushing the Anioma agenda at the national level. His position in the Senate, coupled with his legal acumen and international connections, places him in a unique position to turn aspirations into tangible progress. The success of Anioma State creation requires a unified front, backed by every political figure who represents the people of Delta North.

The gains of Anioma State creation are numerous and deeply impactful. Politically, it would create a lot of political opportunities for our people. Three senators, more than 5 House of Representatives members, many house of assembly members and local government chairmen will emerge.

Economically, Anioma state would empower local communities, increase federal allocations, and accelerate infrastructural development in towns and villages that have long felt neglected under the current federal structure.

Culturally, Anioma State would give identity and voice to the Igbo-speaking people of Delta North. This would preserve our heritage, promote our language, and create space for homegrown policies that reflect our unique values. Local governments and communities would gain increased autonomy, tailored development strategies, and more opportunities for youth and women inclusion in governance.

House of Assembly members from Anioma have a duty beyond legislative functions. They are the voice of their people and must champion causes that bring long-term benefits to their constituencies. Local Government Chairmen, as grassroots leaders, must mobilize support, educate their communities, and ensure that the people are fully aware of what is at stake. The divisive tendencies being created will not do us any good.

This is not a partisan movement, it is a generational mission. Senator Ned Nwoko may be leading the charge, but the battle belongs to all Anioma people. Political egos and party rivalry must be set aside. History will not forgive silence, indifference or sabotage at such a critical juncture. Unity is strength, and with one voice, Anioma can be carved out as a new state.

We must act with urgency. Opportunities like this do not come often. The National Assembly is open to state creation proposals, and the political climate is favorable. If we miss this window, the consequences could last generations. Let us stand with Senator Ned Nwoko, not for his sake, but for the future of Anioma and the generations to come. The time is now.

•  Chibueze Olokor writes from Obiaruku, Ukwuani LGA

BY Azuka Chiemeka.

Warri Wolves Fc got back on track in the NNL Super 8 with a 3-0 win over Kun Khalifat FC at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.

After losing their opening game to Osun United, the team came out with urgency.
Jude Ebhohon scored twice in the first half to give Wolves the lead. Yarhere Efe made it 3-0 in the 66th minute, but he was later sent off for a red card offence, leaving his side to finish the match with ten men.

Still, Warri Wolves controlled the rest of the game and secured their first three points of the playoffs.
They are now level with Kun Khalifat on points but ahead on goal difference as the final group games approach.

Speaking with journalists, Coach Napoleon Aluma said the team’s response was driven by confidence and unity.

“Self-belief was the motivating factor,” Aluma said. “We went unbeaten in the regular season, and after that first loss, we had to look inward, correct our mistakes, and reignite the spirit. This performance shows our response. I still strongly believe we’ll win our last match.”

Kun Khalifat coach Obinna Uzor said the early goal caught his team off guard and changed the rhythm of the game.

“That early goal completely demoralised us,” Uzor said. “It disrupted our rhythm and gave them confidence. From that point, it was tough to bounce back.”

Wolves will face Crown FC next, while Kun Khalifat takes on Osun United, with promotion still up for grabs.